I am thrilled to share my journey of completing the Diabetes UK Swim 22 challenge, swimming 44 miles and managing my diabetes simultaneously. Join me as I dive into the waters, face the highs and lows, and embrace the strength that comes from perseverance.
Managing Diabetes in the Pool
Being a Type 1 diabetic has its unique challenges, especially when it comes to swimming. While swimming is an excellent exercise, it can affect blood sugar levels differently for each individual. For me, it has been a constant battle to keep my blood sugar in check while striving to reach my swimming goals.During my Swim 22 challenge, I experienced instances of both high and low blood sugar levels. Swimming can sometimes lead to increased blood sugar levels due to the body’s response to physical exertion. On the other hand, it can also trigger low blood sugar episodes, particularly if insulin doses or food intake aren’t adjusted accordingly.
The Role of Continuous Glucose Monitoring (CGM)
Having a CGM has been a game-changer in managing my diabetes while swimming. Continuous glucose monitoring provides real-time data, helping me make informed decisions about my insulin doses and food intake. However, due to Bluetooth limitations (see below), I found myself having to get out of the pool every 20 minutes to check my phone and read the data. This interruption can be inconvenient and disrupt the flow of the swim, but I am extremely grateful that this is the only minor inconvenience I face!Bluetooth operates using radio waves, a type of electromagnetic radiation. However, radio waves don’t play well with water! 💦💔
They struggle to travel through the liquid medium, resulting in a weakened or disrupted signal. It’s like trying to have a conversation with your friend through a waterfall—communication becomes quite challenging!
– TeckyBecky
Exciting Advances: The Omnipod 5
Fortunately, brighter days lie ahead with the upcoming launch of the brand new Omnipod 5, which promises to make challenges like swimming with diabetes more manageable. The Omnipod 5 is an innovative tubeless insulin pump that integrates with CGM technology, simplifying diabetes management. With its closed-loop system, it can automatically adjust insulin delivery based on real-time glucose readings. Soon, I’ll be able to swim without the constant need to check my phone or PDM, as the Omnipod 5 will seamlessly provide the insulin I need directly.
Overcoming Challenges, Mile by Mile:
Completing the Swim 22 challenge has been a testament to the power of determination and problem-solving. I had to carefully plan my swimming sessions, ensuring that my insulin doses and carbohydrate intake were adjusted accordingly. Monitoring my blood sugar levels before, during, and after swimming sessions became crucial for maintaining stable glucose levels. Adjustments were made along the way, whether it was reducing basal insulin rates or consuming snacks to prevent hypoglycemia.
Each mile completed was not only a physical achievement but also a triumph of resilience and adaptability. It’s essential to celebrate these victories, no matter how small, as they reinforce our ability to overcome obstacles and live life to the fullest.
Swimming 44 miles as a Type 1 diabetic during the Diabetes UK Swim 22 challenge has been an incredible journey of personal growth, resilience, and triumph. The challenges faced along the way, including managing blood sugar levels, interruptions for CGM checks, and the need for insulin adjustments, have highlighted the importance of problem-solving in diabetes management.
As we look to the future, the arrival of the Omnipod 5 offers a beacon of hope for individuals like myself, promising a more streamlined and hassle-free diabetes management experience. With continued advancements in technology, we can confidently embrace our passions and conquer new challenges, knowing that we have the tools to navigate the waters of diabetes.
Remember, each stroke represents another step towards our goals, while also raising awareness and support for the fight against diabetes. Let’s continue to make waves, inspire others, and never let diabetes beat us.
If you would like to donate, you can do so on my Swim 22 page.